Tasting menus are as plentiful in San Francisco as tech start-ups, and many follow a similar fate; in the end it just doesn’t work. They’re a series of beautiful small plates flash in front of you, and then you’re done. What was in that bowl? How was that cheese called? It’s delicious, but overall it’s a blur. Merchant Roots, a relatively new Fillmore deli and restaurant, decided to do things differently. And the result is an otherworldly, creative affair.

The Table at Merchant Roots, a ticketed nightly affair, was crafted by real-life and business partners chef Ryan Shelton and wine director Madison Michael, spanning nine courses for $110, with optional wine pairings for an additional fee of $75. Like many other prix-fixe menus in town, there’s a theme; but not just any theme. ‘Elements’ is a delicious exploration of celestial bodies (sun, moon, comet) and minerals (salt), alongside your old friends: air, water and fire. There’s only one communal table, so through the meal you’ll get to meet your fellow San Franciscans as you sip wines and decipher beautiful creations.